A Modest Act of Mercy That Keeps Faith Alive: On the Lives of Stray Cats
Reblog
Do you know that moment when you take a short walk, close to home, and you stumble upon a reality that, though common, is detestable? I speak of the condition of surviving upon the streets that, at every instant, millions of little cats throughout the world must cross and endure. In my own case, I came upon two adorable street kittens near the place where I purchase goods for my pantry, and though they are well looked after by the people who carry on their businesses there, it is no less true that this reality is neither easy to uproot nor, still less, desirable for those small creatures.
Many arrive in this world as the consequence of their parents’ prior abandonment. From the very first day they find themselves in a state of survival and must wander within that environment. They draw near to those humans who are noble and kind toward them, yet they flee from all others. In their faces one may see that life has been neither easy nor good, but that, by virtue of the kindness of certain people, they have found not only food, shelter, and water, but also a measure of love and protection from all that lies beyond.
I had no intention of posting anything concerning these street kittens; nevertheless, I cannot deny that they have taken possession of my empathy and my heart. Especially the one you see in the photographs, with his little house made of cardboard. He is situated beside a small business devoted to baking and the making of handmade sweets and cakes. He is somewhat shy. This is only natural; he does not know me. Yet he possesses a disposition that makes him very beautiful. I believe he trusts human beings. He allowed me to feed him a small piece of bread I had just bought at the bakery just behind the shop.
I chose to remain with him for about ten minutes. I sat upon the step of the corridor where his small cardboard home was placed. I made certain he was well, gave him a few gentle strokes, and spoke to him a little. I believe the woman who takes charge of caring for him, feeding him, and watching over his safety is a kind of modern angel. Of all the animals we may see upon the streets of our cities, without any doubt cats receive the least consideration from others. They are regarded as pests or nuisances. The truth is that they are in their present condition because of us, not so much because of themselves.
Life has ways of reminding us that it is not concerned solely with us humans and our problems. It is also about them, vulnerable animals who require our help, our cooperation, and above all our love. I do not even dare to ask that everyone adopt a street kitten or puppy; no. I ask only that their condition as living beings, as animals with dignity, be respected. I applaud and draw inspiration from that angel who has provided a small and warm home for this blond, chubby, and lovely kitten in the corridors of the shopping center. Plainly, the woman does not know me, nor has any reason to do so, yet her actions have a profound effect. May it be that, wherever you may be, you lend your help to those who so greatly need it: the kittens of your own street.
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